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DTF Printing (Direct-to-Film)

DTF (Direct-to-Film) printing is a modern garment printing method that allows full-colour designs to be transferred onto a wide range of fabrics. It’s a popular choice when artwork is detailed, turnaround time is urgent, or traditional screen printing isn’t practical.

DTF printing offers flexibility, vibrant colour reproduction, and fast setup - making it ideal for many custom apparel projects.

What Is DTF Printing?

DTF printing involves printing your artwork onto a special film, applying an adhesive powder, and then heat-pressing the design onto the garment. Once cured, the print bonds securely to the fabric.

Unlike screen printing, DTF does not require screens or colour separations, which allows for quicker setup and more complex designs.

DTF printing on black AS Colour Staple Tees on front

When Is DTF Printing the Best Choice?

DTF printing is a strong option when:

  • Your artwork contains multiple colours or gradients
  • Your designs are large or highly detailed
  • You need urgent or fast turnaround
  • Your quantities are small to medium
  • You’re printing across different garment types

DTF is commonly used for event shirts, corporate branding, promotional apparel, and urgent orders.

When DTF Printing Is NOT the Best Option

DTF may not be the best choice if:

  • You’re ordering very large quantities (100–200+ shirts)
  • The same simple logo is repeated across all garments
  • The lowest possible cost per shirt is the main priority

In these cases, screen printing usually offers better value at scale.

DTF Compared to Other Printing Methods

DTF vs Screen Printing
DTF offers fast setup and flexibility, while screen printing becomes more cost-effective for large bulk orders with repeated designs.

DTF vs DTG
DTF works across a wider range of garment types and is well suited to transfers, while DTG prints directly onto cotton garments and is best for very small runs.

(Full comparisons are available on dedicated comparison pages.)

Common Uses for DTF Printing

DTF printing is commonly used for:

  • Urgent printing requirements
  • Full-colour logos and graphics
  • Corporate and promotional shirts
  • Small to medium bulk orders
  • Mixed garment orders (t-shirts, hoodies, polos)

How to Order DTF Printed Garments

To order DTF printed garments, you’ll usually need to provide:

  1. Quantity
  2. Garment type and style
  3. Print locations
  4. Artwork files (EPS or PDF vector files)
  5. Required date
  6. Pickup or delivery preference

A step-by-step ordering guide is available to help you through the process.

Pricing & Examples

DTF pricing depends on:

  • Artwork size and complexity
  • Number of print positions
  • Garment choice
  • Turnaround time

Real pricing examples are available on the DTF pricing page to help guide your decision.

Important Pricing Note

All pricing information related to DTF printing is provided as examples only. Final pricing depends on artwork, garment selection, quantity, and turnaround requirements.

DTF printing provides a flexible, high-quality solution when traditional printing methods aren’t suitable.

Useful resources

  • DTF Printing Prices
  • Screen Printing vs DTF
  • DTF vs DTG
  • Printing Methods Overview
  • How to Order DTF Printed Shirts
  • DTF Printing FAQs
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